Maryland
Maryland has implemented several literacy policies aimed at improving reading proficiency among its students. The state's approach to literacy education focuses on evidence-based instruction, early intervention, and support for struggling readers. One key policy is the Maryland College and Career-Ready Standards, which outlines the skills and knowledge that students need to develop in order to be successful readers, including phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.
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Maryland provides training and support for educators in evidence-based literacy practices, such as explicit instruction and the use of assessment data to inform instruction. The state has established the Maryland Literacy Association to provide guidance and support to educators and promote evidence-based literacy practices.
Maryland uses a statewide assessment, the Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP), to monitor student progress in reading and identify areas where additional support is needed. The state's Response to Intervention (RTI) framework provides a systematic approach to identifying and supporting struggling readers, with tiered levels of intervention based on student needs.
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The Maryland Department of Education also partners with local organizations and agencies to promote literacy development through initiatives such as the Maryland Early Literacy Initiative and the Maryland Family Engagement Network. These programs aim to support literacy development among students and families, particularly those in low-income communities. Additionally, the state has established the Maryland Ready to Read Act, which focuses on promoting early literacy development among young children in the state.
Maryland Student Score Gaps:
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This represents a decline from the 2019 percentage of 4th grade students not reading at the proficient level which was 65%.
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In 2022, Black students had an average score that was 29 points lower than that of White students. This performance gap was not significantly different from that in 1998 (34 points).
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In 2022, Hispanic students had an average score that was 40 points lower than that of White students. This performance gap was wider than that in 1998 (18 points).
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In 2022, male students in Maryland had an average score that was lower than that for female students by 5 points.
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In 2022, students who were eligible for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) had an average score that was 32 points lower than that for students who were not eligible. This performance gap was not significantly different from that in 1998 (30 points).
Information from the NAEP website for 2022 4th grade reading scores.
MD EVIDENCE-BASED CHAMPIONS
MD EVIDENCE-BASED ORGANIZATIONS
These organizations are committed to promoting evidence-based reading practices, providing professional development opportunities for educators, and supporting students in developing strong reading skills.
Maryland State Department of Education
https://www.marylandpublicschools.org/
The State of Maryland Literacy Association
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International Dyslexia Association - Maryland Branch